New IOM Report Explores Role of Public in Disaster Planning

While average citizens may lack the expertise to comment on technical issues related to emergencies, they are very capable of deliberating on the values underlying public policy decisions. A new workshop summary from the Institute of Medicine (IOM) considers the role of public engagement in the process of disaster planning and decision making.

Public engagement can help inform members of the community, increase legitimacy and acceptance of disaster plans, and reveal public misunderstandings, biases, and areas of disagreement. By including community members and stakeholders in planning discussions, policy makers can address issues affecting a diverse range of citizens and help to create more realistic and sustainable disaster plans.